UTEP’s women’s basketball program is entering a pivotal season, one that could define its trajectory under second‑year head coach Keitha Adams. After a modest 13‑17 finish last year, the Miners have assembled a recruiting class that draws on revenue‑sharing proceeds and name‑image‑likeness (NIL) opportunities to attract top talent. Adams says the team is now positioned to compete in the middle tier of the Mountain West Conference, a conference that has traditionally favored established programs.
A Roster Built for Size and Skill
The new roster blends experience with fresh legs. Returning guard Tatiana Collazo, who contributed 1.7 points per game last season, will be joined by a trio of newcomers who bring size and versatility. Armando Sindalawa, a junior‑college transfer, arrives after averaging 16.7 points, 7.9 rebounds and 6.5 assists at his previous stop. The class also features Isabel Joao, the nation’s top junior‑college prospect, who posted 17.3 points and 15.3 rebounds per game before signing with UTEP.
Imani Warren, a transfer from New Mexico State, brings a proven conference pedigree, having posted 12.1 points and 3.7 rebounds per game for the Aggies. The Miners also welcome Zainab Olalkan, a 6‑2 forward from Clarendon College, whose 11.6 points and 13.9 rebounds per game made her a dominant presence on the glass. Additional pieces include Dilangue Cruz, a South Plains College transfer, and high‑school standouts Kobe Johnson and Charlotte Aldridge, each of whom posted double‑digit scoring in their senior seasons.
Coach Adams emphasizes that the team’s identity will revolve around athleticism, rebounding and the ability to score in transition. ‘We have the size to control the boards and the guard play to stretch defenses,’ she said. The coaching staff has also secured commitments from three high‑school recruits, including Mary Moses Amaniyo, the Conference USA sixth player of the year last season, and Aolani Woldai, a freshman who contributed 2.8 points as a rookie.
If the pieces click, UTEP could improve dramatically on its 5‑13 conference record from a year ago. The Miners’ schedule will test them against familiar foes such as New Mexico State and Houston North Shore High School alumni who now compete at the collegiate level. With a blend of size, skill and experience, the program hopes to turn a promising recruiting class into a winning season.